ISG awarded ten million pound Cheshire fire training facility

ISG has won the contract to develop a new, state-of-the-art training facility for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS).

The new facility will stand on the current Sadler Road site in Winsford and see existing buildings extended and refurbished to create 14 training zones which will immerse firefighters in real-life operational situations making them better equipped and skilled to keep the communities of Cheshire and surrounding areas safe.

It will provide innovative technology and real-life scenario sets, ranging from serious motorway collisions to dealing with building fires and chemical incidents, keeping firefighters highly skilled and equipped to deal with a myriad of life saving situations.

Cheshire Fire Authority approved the project after considering the operational benefits that were presented by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service staff, and the deal was sealed with a breaking the sod ceremony held on site on Friday 12 July.

Neil Walker, ISG framework director commented: “This is the fourth contract we have worked on with Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, most recently delivering the innovative Lymm Response Hub and Safety Central. That centre, just like this one, will ensure the safety of people across Cheshire and beyond. We are incredibly proud of the work we do to provide the fire service with the latest facilities, ensuring when the worst happens our emergency services are prepared and ready.”

Chief Fire Officer Gus O’Rourke said: “Not only is this a real boon for our firefighters but also for the communities of Cheshire who rely on our firefighters to keep them safe and be there when they need us the most.

“This incredible facility will be the envy of fire services across the country, and I’m certain that it will further enhance Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service’s reputation as an innovative, forward-thinking organisation that places huge value in both resident safety and the skill and ability of its firefighters.”

Work has already started on site, with groundworks underway to pave the way for the traditionally constructed buildings, such as terraced houses and factories, which will stand on the completed site, alongside an updated building for occupational health staff and meeting rooms.

ISG was awarded the £10.25m contract through the North West Construction Hub as part of its medium value framework, with work expected to complete by March 2020.

ISG will provide three new apprenticeships on the site and hopes to leave a lasting impression, with visits to primary schools highlighting the importance of site safety and visits to colleges to encourage young people to take up careers in construction. 

ISG has a heritage of working with fire services across the UK to deliver groundbreaking facilities, its Lymm Response Hub and Safety Central with CFRS was officially opened by Princess Anne in 2018 and brings safety and life skills topics to life through sensory tours, helping people from all walks of life, young and old, to stay safe in their own homes. ISG has also worked with Cleveland Fire Authority to deliver a four-year, £22 million programme of works, including four new fire stations.